Gilsonite in Plastics and Masterbatches

Gilsonite can be used to colour and modify some plastics.

Uses

• Black colouring of recycled plastics
• Processing aid
• Bituminous plastic compounds

Uses in plastics

• Black colouring of recycled polyolefins, where small colour variations are acceptable
• Processing aid that improves flow
• Bitumen–polymer compounds for pipes, sheets and profiles

Advantages

• Natural hydrocarbon compatible with non-polar polymers
• Adds black colour at low cost
• Can improve water resistance

Limitations

Gilsonite is not a replacement for carbon black where UV stabilization or electrical conductivity is needed. It can also affect mechanical properties at higher loadings.

Typical starting levels

1–5 % in masterbatch trials. Use micronized grades and check melt flow, impact strength and colour consistency.

Use micronized gilsonite for good dispersion.